The Crispy Foundation:
6 cups crispy rice cereal (like Rice Krispies)
The Chocolatey Glue:
1 (11-12 oz) bag milk chocolate chips (about 2 cups)
1 (10 oz) bag butterscotch chips (about 1 ⅔ cups) – this is the secret flavor key!
¾ cup (1.5 sticks / 170g) unsalted butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins & Finishes:
½ cup roasted peanuts or mini pretzels, crushed
Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Extra melted chocolate, for drizzling
The Foolproof, 3-Step Method to Perfect Bars
Step 1: The Magical Melt
Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Set aside.
In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and butter.
Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring vigorously between each burst, until the mixture is completely smooth and silky. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes total. Do not overheat.
Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 2: The Grand Crispy Mix-Ins
Pour the crispy rice cereal into the bowl of melted chocolate mixture.
Using a sturdy silicone spatula, gently fold and stir until every single piece of cereal is completely and evenly coated in the glossy chocolate. Work quickly before the mixture begins to set.
Step 3: Press, Set & Slice
Immediately transfer the mixture to your prepared pan.
Use the spatula, then your hands (lightly buttered or with a sheet of parchment on top), to press the mixture firmly and evenly into every corner of the pan. A firm press is the key to bars that hold together.
Optional: Sprinkle the top with a pinch of flaky sea salt for a sublime sweet-salty contrast.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm and set.
Step 4: The Grand Finale
Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire slab out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
Using a large, sharp knife, cut into bars or squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a hot, damp towel between slices.
Pro Chef Secrets for the Ultimate Batch
The Double-Boiler Method: For more control (to avoid seizing), melt the chips and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth.
Press with Purpose: The more firmly you compact the mixture, the better your bars will hold their shape when cut and eaten.
The Flavor Twist: Swap the butterscotch chips for peanut butter chips or dark chocolate chips to create a different flavor profile.
Add-Ins: Fold in ½ cup of mini marshmallows, chopped peanuts, or toffee bits with the cereal for extra texture.
The Gourmet Finish: Drizzle the top with melted white or dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt before chilling.
Serving, Storing & Gifting Like a Pro
Serve: These bars are perfect straight from the fridge, where they have a wonderful firm, snappy bite. Let them sit for 5 minutes at room temperature for a slightly softer chew.
Storing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can be kept at room temperature in a cool place for 2-3 days, but may soften.
Freezing: These bars freeze exceptionally well! Layer them between parchment in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
The Perfect Gift: Stack them in a cellophane bag tied with a ribbon, or pack them in a decorative tin. A homemade gift that’s always a massive hit.
Conclusion: Your New Secret Weapon for Instant Sweet Satisfaction
The No-Bake Crunch Bar is more than a recipe—it's liberation. It frees you from the tyranny of complicated desserts and proves that incredible treats can be born from simplicity, speed, and a whole lot of crunch.
So, grab that bag of chocolate chips and that box of cereal. Your 10-minute journey to crispy, chocolaty nirvana starts now.
We have to know—are you a classic purist, or do you go wild with add-ins? What’s your favorite no-bake treat of all time? Share your crunch bar ideas and stories in the comments below!
